A brick house is a serious commitment, because in most cases from start to finish it will take about 2 years. There are 2 stages of the brick house construction, building the house and then taking care of the finishes. This house needs a strong concrete foundation that is reinforced by rebars.
However, if you weight the benefits of this type of construction, you will soon be questioning what route to choose: lumber or brick? This is the questions. Bricks have been used in constructions for thousands of years, but few know that they have evolved over the past years. The modern bricks are larger and have hollow chambers for higher insulating efficiency. In addition, modern bricks are affordable and very strong to impacts. Along with the concrete pillars, ceilings and foundation, the brick walls will be very durable and fire and water proof. Many advantages you need to think of, when making a choice. I have other projects here.
Beside the disadvantage of time, a brick house is also a lot harder to remodel or to make new additions. It is not impossible, but there is more hustle involved. Therefore, when you do the planning you need to know exactly what you want and what you can afford. I have witnessed cases in which people designed and started pharaonic buildings and they stopped midway because of lack of budget. So my honest advise is to decide the budget and have 15% extra for other costs that you cannot estimate initially.
Generally speaking, you need 100 kg of rebars for a cubic meter of concrete. You need to dig the foundation at more than 1 m (frost line). However, these details will be decided by the engineering and architectural team.
Another tip I have for you is to know that the budget will be split in the following manner: 1/3 of the budget will cost the house structure and 2/3 for the finishes.
You need to pour concrete ceilings because they will keep the brick house well tighten together. The concrete ceilings need a thick net of rebars because the spans are large. That is why you need proper engineering, especially if you live in an area with seismic activity.
When pouring the foundation, you need to have in mind the routes of the utility pipes (water, electricity, plumbing, etc.). Follow the brick house plans with attention so you know they are implemented properly.
Use a spirit level to check if the brick wall are plumb. Use builders string to check if the walls are perfectly straight. Even if the contractor has proper recommendations you need to check the quality of the execution by yourself. Be strict with the materials and prevent the waste because that will influence the total costs really quickly. Since you build an amazing house, you can also add a large pavilion, so you can have a place in the backyard, where to hang out with family and friends.
Make sure you select a contractor that has experience in building brick houses and also has all the tools and equipment needed. Establish all the responsibilities of the contractor from the very beginning to avoid disputes. Make sure you set a deadline with penalties, so you have control over the building process.
